The Cinematheque

“A moving testament to what people are capable of, if they could just find the right outlet for it.”

Jordan Mintzer, The Hollywood Reporter

Floating on the Seine River in the heart of Paris, the Adamant is a therapeutic day centre whose distinct architectural form—resembling that of a wooden spaceship-turned-barge—defies the clinical setting. Developed in collaboration with staff and persons living with mental illness, the centre opened in July 2010 and operates as part of the Esquirol psychiatric service of the Saint-Maurice hospital network. With a gentle quotidian lens, director Nicolas Philibert respectfully documents life at the centre. We see those attending the Adamant engage in a range of art-making, demonstrating how creative expression is critical to mental well-being. From planning the anniversary of the centre’s film club to reconciling cash at their cafe, candid conversations and collective decision-making between staff and its members are core to the centre’s operations. Winner of the Golden Bear at last year’s Berlinale, On the Adamant is a tender portrait of collaborative and community-oriented care.

In French with English subtitles

Post-screening discussion with Barbara Fee and Dave MacDonald of Pathways Clubhouse.

Moderated by Dr. Harry Karlinsky, series director.

“Compassionate, intelligent, and shrewdly observed … There is a gentle and very happy sense of freedom and possibility aboard the Adamant, and there is enormous warmth, sympathy, and human curiosity in this film.”

Peter Bradshaw, The Guardian